Letters to the Editor: The simplistic idea that Hamas is totally responsible for this violence

To the editor: Several letters responding to the op-ed article by a pregnant Palestinian woman in Gaza were unanimous in their belief that Hamas is the cause of the current conflict. They imply that if Hamas is removed, harmony in this part of Palestine will ensue.

This simplistic notion fails to address the underlying cause, which is the decades-long military occupation of Gaza followed by a siege, where the inhabitants are not able to live ordinary lives. Rather, they live in quiet desperation not knowing when the next night raid by the Israeli military might occur.

Israel has ignored numerous United Nations resolutions which have addressed its treatment of the Palestinians. Not until Israel comes to the realization that the land must be shared will there ever be peace.

Joseph Tillotson, Redondo Beach